Due to Tropical Storm Nolo, all state parks, camping, forest reserves, state-managed hiking trails and natural area reserves will be closed on Hawaii island, Maui, and Molokai. Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park will also temporarily close ahead of the storm.
The Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources plans to close state parks and reserves on Hawaii island today, and on Maui and Molokai on Friday.
The closures also include wildlife sanctuaries and hunting and game management areas. All state forest and park camping permits have been suspended until further notice, and refunds will be offered.
DLNR said the closures are due to the possibility of significant to extreme flash flooding and hurricane-force winds between Thursday and Saturday, and asks for everyone’s cooperation.
At Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, backcountry trails and campgrounds will fully close by 5 p.m. today. All other park areas including recreational activities at the Namakanipaio tent camping area will close by 5 p.m. today, while the Kahuku Unit will close at its normal time of 4 p.m. today.
“Kilauea Military Camp lodging, Volcano House and the Nāmakanipaio A-frame cabins will remain open for registered guests only,” according to a statement. “For their safety, lodging guests must shelter in place and should not recreate outdoors.”
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People already in remote locations who may face dangerous surf, flooding or road conditions are advised to shelter in place. People are also urged to avoid forested and coastal areas due to the dangers of rising streams, flash flooding, falling trees, storm surge or high surf.
“DLNR parks, forest lands, camping, trails, hunting and game management areas will be reopened upon completion of damage assessments,” said DLNR Division of Forestry and Wildlife Administrator Marigold Zoll in a news release. “We ask for the public’s patience and understanding during this process. The compounding impacts of successive storms are affecting our ability to safely open areas in a timely manner.”
For updates, visit dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp.